Meet Mrs. Kelly Raynor
We asked our teachers & staff a few questions so that you can get to know them better!
What is your role at St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School?
Interventionist
What year did you start working at St. Stephen?
2022
Tell us about your education background & about your teaching/work experience.
I went to undergrad at University of Nebraska-Lincoln and got my master’s degree immediately after at Doane College. I worked in Millard Public Schools for 8 years as a 4th grade teacher and 7 years as a Literacy Interventionist. I stayed home for a few years with our youngest child and then started subbing at SSM when he was in Kindergarten. This is my 2nd year as an interventionist at SSM.
What do you love about your job?
I love books and enjoy sharing my passion for reading with kids. Nothing brings me more joy than to show kids how much they have grown in reading throughout the year. You sometimes hear, “It just clicked!” I get to see this firsthand and celebrate this success with children.
Tell us about your family (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.):
My husband, JP, and I have been married for 16 years. We have a freshman at Prep, Johnny, an 8th grade daughter at SSM, Tessa, and a 3rd grade son at SSM, Finn. We have a dog, Boji, who is 5 years old. He is named after our favorite place to go during the summer, Okoboji, Iowa!!!!
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid, I kept a diary. Every year I would write and say I wanted to be a teacher and a mom when I grew up! I have always loved kids and truly enjoy working with them. They fill my bucket!!!
What is your favorite sweet treat?
Pretty much anything sweet (unfortunately), but I especially love ice cream!
What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
I love hanging with my husband and kids on the weekend. We are typically on the sidelines or in the stands watching our kids participate in sports. JP and I also enjoy golfing whenever we can.
What piece of advice would you give parents to help their child(ren) succeed at St. Stephen?
Read the weekly newsletters that are sent out by teachers. I like to know what my children are learning, but encourage them to be independent and responsible for what is expected of them in class.
